Phase 2 Trial of a Friend-Based Motivational Interview to Reduce Alcohol-Related Sexual Assault Risk in Women Aged 18 to 24

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a friend-based motivational interview called PAIRS MI to reduce the risk of alcohol-involved sexual assault AISA among female college students. This Phase 2 trial compares this friend-centered approach to a standard sexual assault prevention program commonly used on U.S. college campuses. The study also explores how changes in attitudes, behaviors, and the closeness of friend pairs may influence outcomes over one year. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either the friend-based motivational interview or the usual treatment, which consists of an online supplemental Healthy Relationships course. The motivational interview focuses on how friends can support each other in reducing sexual assault risk, including discussions about alcohols impact on helping behavior and skill-building in protective strategies. The trial includes follow-up assessments at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after the intervention. Throughout the study, participants will complete surveys measuring alcohol-involved sexual assault incidents, drinking behavior, readiness to intervene, bystander behaviors, assault protective strategies, and barriers to intervention. These assessments occur at baseline and multiple points during the one-year follow-up. The study aims to understand both individual and friend-related changes affecting AISA risk, with ongoing monitoring of safety and behavior over the full year.

PAIRS: Friend-Based AISA Intervention